A big argument prior to the election was when was America great. And if someone said a certain period of time it would be pointed out racial or gender inequality that existed at the time. So the argument comes down to can a country with flaws still be considered great?
It depends on what areas of society are focused on with the argument. One could easily look at the 1990s Clinton-era criminal justice policies as a very dark period of time. Trump or another politician could focus on criminal justice from that era and say 'We need to get back to that so it we can be great' and come across terribly. Meanwhile, he could look further back in time to when America came together to solve critical problems, reform the banking system, and develop the social safety nets America has enjoyed for so long. So the question is, what was Trump focusing on?
The definitions of liberalism and conservatism you give of course come from a liberal's perspective that you are fighting the good fight and your 'opponents' aren't. Well there is plenty of evidence disproving the definitions you offer.
I'm actually referencing common definitions.
Liberalism: a political philosophy based on belief in progress, the essential goodness of the human race, and the autonomy (see autonomy 2) of the individual and standing for the protection of political and civil liberties; specifically : such a philosophy that considers government as a crucial instrument for amelioration of social inequities (such as those involving race, gender, or class)
Conservatism: a political philosophy based on
tradition and social stability,
stressing established institutions, and preferring gradual development to abrupt change; specifically : such a philosophy calling for lower taxes, limited government regulation of business and investing, a strong national defense, and individual financial responsibility for personal needs (such as retirement income or health-care coverage)
(Keep in mind that this definition of conservatism has been subverted by Trumpism; the philosophy of being an asshole)
Even though I'm on the extreme end of liberalism, I actually support conservatism and its existence as a counter-force for rapid progress. Some liberal ideas need to be tested in the court of public opinion before society can accept change and move forward.
